Starting the Search...

Sometimes you will find too much information. Sometimes you will find very little information. Developing a search strategy will save you time in finding relevant information.

1. A good way to start research is by phrasing your topic as a question. What do you really want to know about the topic?

For example, NUTRITION is a broad topic. Defining the topic as "What are the nutritional benefits of vegetables?" focuses the topic for you.

A few more examples:

• What are the effects of TV violence on children?
• What are the laws on drinking and driving in Texas?

2. Identify keywords

• violence, TV, children
• laws, drinking, texas

3. Brainstorm synonyms and word variations

• media, kids, television
• legal, alcohol, intoxication, DUI

4. Locate background information on the topic.

• How much information and what kind of information do I need?
  • brief basic facts
  • statistics
  • opinions and varying viewpoints
  • as much information as possible on the topic
• How current does the information need to be?
  • events occuring today or within the past month
  • historical
  • doesn't matter
• What format will provide the best information?
  • books, magazines, journals or newspapers
  • maps
  • photos
  • audio
  • statistical charts
  • computer files

5. Keep a research log to track your progress and strategies. Jot down the keywords you've tried, the databases you've used, and websites that were useful or not useful.

6. Take notes and organize them.

7. Evaluate the information you find - is it useful and relevant to your topic?

8. Pull it together.

9. Cite your sources using the proper format.